Mid Ulster’s returning MP Francie Molloy has pledged to continue the fight against austerity for everyone in Mid Ulster “irrespective of their religion or political opinion”.

But maintains that he will not take his seat in Westminster.

Thanking the 19,935 voters whom he said not only endorsed him, but helped him increase his majority to 13,617 over the nearest rival party, the Sinn Fein man said he will continue his fight for equality.

“Sinn Féin fought this election with a clear message – equality not austerity and the voters of Mid Ulster have endorsed that message,” Mid Ulster’s new MP said after winning the seat.

“I have pledged to continue to represent the people of Mid Ulster, irrespective of their religion or political opinion, as I have always done. The doors of our offices across Mid Ulster are open to everyone.

“The electorate know where we stand on challenging austerity, on challenging the cuts coming from a millionaire cabinet in London and or stance on the abstentionist policy we hold in regard to swearing an oath of allegiance in Westminster.”

Michelle O'Neill congratulates Francie Molly on winning Mid Ulster

Mr Molloy went on to express his sincere thanks to the team that helped him retain his seat.

“I would also like to thank the Sinn Féin team across Mid Ulster, to each member of that team for whatever role they played, big or small, it is all important and it all brings about the end result. Go raibh maith agat.”

Speaking about the term ahead, he added: “The next four or five years will bring huge challenges but I am looking forward to that challenge. I will be bringing a focus on the theme of Time to Invest in the West and will be looking at how we can achieve much more for Mid Ulster.

“Let us go forward together in partnership,” he added, “through equality, to build a stronger Mid Ulster in a stronger Ireland.”